Blog

The Observatory Mesa Trail is a fun trail to hike on and one we hiked quite regularly while living in Flagstaff. After parking at Thorpe Park in Flagstaff, you can walk across the road to Mars Hill Trail. Mars Hill Trail will take you up the mountain to the Observatory Trail. You will be able to see Lowell Observatory for a few minutes while on the trail. You can do a loop around Mars Hill Trail, or an out and back on the Observatory Trail. Or you can also make one big 5.5 mile loop like I did. When coming back the return trail followed the Rio De Flag and led to the pond at Thorpe Park. I absolutely recommend this trail. Follow my track, you’ll be glad you did.

The Observatory Trail is relatively flat, but could be found difficult because of the length. It is for day use only and camping is strictly prohibited. Keep an eye on the City of Flagstaff’s website because they offer events from time to time here. The trail is popular to bird watch and mountain biking in addition to hiking.

Cost: Free!

See the trail on the Alltrails App here: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/62916

While in Flagstaff, be sure to check out Walnut Canyon National Monument and all that Northern Arizona has to offer. There are hiking trails all over the city to explore and Flagstaff is only an hour from the Grand Canyon making it a popular night to stay the night before/after a day exploring the Grand Canyon.